Thirty-five gang fugitives have been arrested, thanks to the publicity generated by our Fugitive of the Week series, the digital billboards and stophoustongangs.org.
And now Crime Stoppers is getting in on the partnership, offering rewards for tips leading to arrests or the filing of charges.
Representatives from HPD, the FBI, the Harris County DA and other law enforcement agencies came together on Wednesday to make that announcement.
So far, 52 gang fugitives have been featured in the last year on ABC13, on the billboards and the website. There is, in fact, a link on the website for people to offer anonymous tips.
It's all helping to put a dent in gang crime.
Houston has more than 300 gangs and more than 20,000 gang members. The ones featured on TV and the billboards are the most violent.
"We now have a four-level approach to this, thanks to Crime Stoppers joining the fight. Also, we have media that is getting the word out. Law enforcement, we're doing our jobs," Harris County District Attorney Mike Anderson said.
And the fourth prong Anderson mentioned are the citizens who know something and call or email it in, leading to arrests.
We heard from HPD, from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, from the Harris County sheriff and they all agree: The public's eyes and ears are a big part of what gets criminals off the street.
Crime Stoppers will pay up to $5,000 for any information called in to the 713-222-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org that leads to the filing of felony charges or arrest of suspects. Tips can also be sent by text message. Text TIP610 plus your tip to CRIMES (274637). All tipsters remain anonymous.
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